The Nigeria Customs Service, Area 5 Command at Ibeto Seaport and Terminals, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday witnessed a change of leadership as the pioneer Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Martha Abubakar, officially handed over to her successor, Comptroller Usman Yahaya.
Comptroller Abubakar, who retired from service after pioneering the command, was widely praised by industry stakeholders for her remarkable achievements within a short period. Under her leadership, the command generated over N4.2 billion in revenue within just three months of operations, while also strengthening trade facilitation at the port.
In his maiden address, Comptroller Yahaya expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessor.
He declared that his leadership mantra would be guided by the CGC’s policy thrust of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation, adding that he was determined to serve with dedication, professionalism, and accountability.
“I wish to pay glowing tribute to my predecessor, retired Comptroller Martha Abubakar, whose tenure here has been nothing short of historic. I am committed to consolidating her achievements, ensuring compliance, and working closely with all stakeholders to achieve government objectives,” Yahaya stated.
He further emphasized his commitment to revenue optimization and trade facilitation, noting that technology and efficiency would be central to his administration’s strategies. Yahaya called for strong collaboration among sister agencies, private sector stakeholders, and port operators, stressing that teamwork was essential to achieving the command’s objectives.
“Let us work together to ensure effective revenue mobilization, supporting Nigeria’s growth and development. My doors remain open to constructive dialogue, interaction, and unhindered communication,” he said.
The new Area Controller also pledged to align the command’s operations with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring that the command would play its part in driving national economic developments
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